KTCL to induct 45 hi-tech buses to connect rural and urban Goa

KTCL to induct 45 hi-tech buses to connect rural and urban Goa

Panaji, Nov 3 (PTI) The connectivity between rural and urban Goa is headed for a change next month as the state-owned Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited has decided to link the cities with remote areas through 105 new routes by inducting 45 hi-tech buses in its fleet. KTCL Managing Director Venancio Furtado said the Corporation will induct the new buses in its fleet of 400-odd vehicles that will help serve these virgin routes. The Corporation, which is named after a former dynasty that ruled Goa, was conceived in 1980 to connect rural Goa to urban spots. Their buses ply to remotest of the villages in the state which are often ignored by private bus operators. Furtado said all the 105 new routes will connect villages to cities and the Corporation has decided to introduce direct buses shuttling passengers from their village to towns like Panaji, Ponda, Mapusa, Vasco and Margao. The government has already sanctioned Rs 7 crore for procuring new fleet, which will be inducted by month-end. The spacious Tata Marcopolo buses, which are low floored, will be pressed on these routes. Furtado said 45 new buses would be bought, of which five will be airconditioned and will run on inter-state routes. The Corporation which is suffering losses have been suggested short and long term strategies by the state government to cover up the loss. Furtado said that 25 per cent increase in the fleet capacity was one such move proposed by the government. He said the management is also infusing discipline in the staff by conducting periodical checks and also incentives are given to good performers. PTI RPS DK